Yoga for Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders usually develop in the body, when there is a problem in the thyroid gland and it cannot produce the hormones that are required for regulating the metabolism. Thyroid problems can lead to one of the two conditions, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. The symptoms and problems associated with thyroid problems include fatigue, weight fluctuations, water retention, irregular sleeping patterns, mood swings as well as pain in the joints and muscles. Yoga asanas have positive effects on the thyroid and the parathyroid glands. These asana pushes healthy and oxygen-rich blood directly into the neck which normalizes the function of the thyroid glands. As it stimulates and massages the thyroid gland, which helps to speed up the metabolism, helping them to work at an optimal level.

Sarvangasana and Matsyasana are the most effective yoga poses for thyroid disorders.

Sarvangasana :

To start with, lie flat on the floor, on your back. The arms should rest along the sides, palms downwards. Exhale once and lift your legs up 30, then 60, then 90 and then around 130 degrees so they are extended behind your head. Hold this position for a few seconds and breathe normally. Then exhale, bring the legs to 90 degrees and raise the buttocks. Use your palms to support your back, but keep the elbows on the ground. Gradually lift the body higher and move your hands up to support the shoulder blades. Your elbows may tend to move outwards but try to keep them close so they are straight in line with your shoulders. The shoulders, hips and feet should be properly aligned. Sarvangasana is a shoulder stand; push your back towards your face so that your body should be resting on your shoulders and not on your back. Hold this position for as long as possible and breathe normally.

Menstruating women should refrain from practicing this pose as it reverses the menstrual flow due to the inversion. In case you have any problems such as blood pressure, glaucoma, hernias, cardiovascular disease, cervical spondylosis, neck injuries, thrombosis and kidney problems consult a qualified yoga teacher first!

Matsyasana :

To start with, sit in the lotus posture, with your right foot on the left thigh and left foot on the right thigh as shown in figure. Sit erect with the knees touching the floor. Lie down on the floor, pull your palms backward a little and fold your elbows to support the body weight. Move one elbow at a time further to allow the whole back to come to the floor. Breath normally. Bring your palms underneath the hips and the buttock. At the same time fold your elbows. Lift the head and bend it towards the floor, so that only upper portion means crown of the head touches the floor. Try to make an arch. In this position your body weight is resting at two points – head and the hip. Bring your palms to the feet and hold the toes. Now you are in the perfect fish posture. Breathe normally and remain in this position for 10 to 30 seconds. For returning, leave the toes and bring your palms to the hips. Fold your elbows and support the body weight on them. Lift the head upward, straighten the neck and put them back on the floor. Unfold the legs from the lotus posture and stretch them out straight. Bring your hands on the floor and relax.